Lick of paint for whalebone pier

THE recent renovations to uMhlanga’s Whalebone Pier have alarmed several members of the community, who feared that the beloved and iconic structure might undergo some undisclosed alterations. Several calls were received by the Northglen News, inquiring about the activity at the site.

However, uMhlanga ward councillor, Heinz de Boer, tempered concerns last week when he confirmed that the municipality was only performing routine maintenance on the 80-metre walkway.

The renovations, which began on Tuesday, 11 August, involve the painting of the pillars, refurbishment of the walkway and other general maintenance, said communications liaison officer, Adrian Ryan.

Scaffolding structure have been erected at the front of the pier to limit access to the site. The renovations are expected to be completed within the next three weeks, said De Boer.

“The refurbishment is welcomed. The pier has become an iconic piece of architecture and it should always look pristine, especially now that there are a lot of prime developments happening in close proximity to the pier. Also, the holiday period is around the corner, which requires it to be in tip-top shape. Unfortunately, as with anything near the ocean, it needs to be regularly maintained as the sea and elements are bound to take their toll,” said De Boer.

Last year, media giant, CNN, named the pier one of the world’s most iconic landmarks due to its distinctive appearance.
Since its completion in 2007, the landmark, which represents the skeleton of a whale, has become a firm favourite among photographers.